The Internet kick-off Ego Death Tour in L.A.
Soul band The Internet released their third studio album Ego Death earlier this summer to critically acclaimed reviews. The album featuring artists such as Janelle Monae, Vic Mensa, James Fauntleroy, and Tyler, The Creator has easily become a fan favorite. Not too long after, the band announced their headlining North American tour to kick-off in their hometown of Los Angeles.
The Odd Future-affiliated band has gained quite the buzz over the past few years with their smooth vocals, infectious beats, and Avant-garde style that sets them apart from other artists. On Tuesday, The Internet played to a sold-out crowd at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles. This was my first time seeing them as headliners, however it was my third time seeing them perform live, and third times a charm! This is the type of band that can’t be boxed into a particular genre, and with opening acts like Nicky Davey and Tay Walker, the entire concert alluded transcending vibes.
LA-based duo Nicky Davey are the new kids on the block who opened the show with a four-song set. Lead singer Nicky may appear to be this tattoo-loving guy who could front a rock band, but his smooth electro-soul vocals immensely captured the warm energy of the room.
R&B crooner Tay Walker was next to take the stage as he made the ladies swoon with his cover to Musiq Soulchild’s “Just Friends.” He continued to perform some of his original songs and even showed his chops on the piano. Walker and Nicky Davey have worked with The Internet on past projects, so it was only right for them to open the show and make it a family affair.
They set the tone as The Internet approached the stage in true rock star fashion. Once the beat dropped for the hit song “Get Away,” front woman Syd the Kid and company knew just how to entice the crowd for the remainder of the night. Performing the entire Ego Death album along with a few gems from their past albums Feel Good and Purple Naked Ladies was the perfect blend for a musical eargasm. They kept the party going with a killer cover of N.E.R.D.’s “She Wants To Move” that would even keep Skateboard P partying on his feet. Experts at moving a crowd as fans hung on to every single lyric, prove how this band is a force to be reckoned with. Fans were in for a real treat when The Internet brought out fellow Odd Future member Tyler, The Creator to perform their “Palace/Curse” collaboration. Before they performed their finale of “Dontcha,” Syd told the fans, “This is the best LA show I’ve ever done.”
So what’s the melody behind the Ego Death tour? If you want a mixture between soul, jazz, hip-hop, and rock – this is one concert you don’t want to miss. It’s the type of music that takes your mind to another realm and feeds your soul making you yearn for more. The Internet is this generation’s soul rock stars and it’s only the beginning.
